How to Network Two PCs

A computer network allows 2 or more computers to connect to each other. People using computers connected to a single network are able to share files, documents, information, and other types of resources. Connecting to a network also allows multiple computers to share a single printer connected to one of the computers.

Materials Needed:

- Crossover Cables- Computers- Ethernet Cards

Step 1

Determine what type of network you want. Choose Ethernet cards and cables suitable to the kind of network you are setting up.

Step 2

Open your computer. Once the computer is fully booted up, click on the 'My Computer' icon on the desktop. Right click on the icons of the folders or drives that you want to share on the network. Choose 'Properties' from the drop-down menu. A new window will appear. Click on the 'Sharing' tab and check the box that says 'Share this folder on the network'.

Step 3

Check the box 'Allow network users to change my files' if you allow other users to modify the contents of your shared files.

Step 4

Turn the computer off. Use the crossover cable and connect each end to the Ethernet ports of the two computers that you want to have on your network. If you want to connect several computers in a network, you will need a network hub.

Step 5

Turn on both of the computers. Select the 'My Computer' icon on the desktop. Choose 'Properties' from the drop-down menu. Choose 'Computer Name' and select 'Change'. Do this for both of the computers. Give each computer a unique name to identify it when it is shared on the network.

Step 6

Right click on the 'My Network Places' icon on the desktop. A drop-down menu will appear. Choose 'Properties' and select 'Internet Protocol'. Enter a unique IP address for each of the computers and provide the same subnet mask for both the computers. Close the window.

Step 7

Connect to a computer network by clicking on the 'My Network Places' icon located on the desktop. A new window will appear. Several folders can be seen inside. These are the folders shared on the network. Select the appropriate folder that you want to access.

Step 8

You can make some modifications on the files and folders if you are allowed to.